Many drivers have experienced a slow puncture, once or multiple times. While it often it seems as not a big issue at first, a slow puncture can lead to serious safety risks if not addressed promptly.
What is a Slow Puncture?
This refers to the gradual loss of air in a tyre over time which as a result, the tyre can’t perform at its optimum best, and over time you’ll probably notice a reduction in ride quality.
Causes of a Slow Puncture
Some common causes of a slow puncture include:
- Driving over a small, sharp object, such as glass or a screw, piercing the rubber.
- Damaging the side wall of a tyre by hitting a pothole.
- Faulty air valve.
How To Spot a Slow Puncture
- Vibrating steering wheel
When a tyre gradually has a slow puncture, this often results to both the tyre and wheel becoming unbalanced. Consequently, this will trigger a vibration, something which will be more noticeable when driving at a high speed.
- Vehicle pulls to one side
When a vehicle veers to the left or right, then this could be a sign of unbalanced tyre pressure, suggesting you may have a slow puncture.
- Deflated or bulging tyres
Have the tyres changed shape, or do they look flat – do any of them look to be sagging under the weight of the car? If yes, this could be a sign of a slow puncture.
- Damaged or faulty tyre valve
This is unusual but could still occur, nonetheless. As such, a replacement is needed as it impacts the tyre’s ability to hold air.
- Objects stuck in the treads.
Even if the tyre doesn’t look flat, an object such as screws, nails or other debris stuck in the tread could create a slow puncture that gets worse with time.
Can you drive with a slow puncture?
Yes, but it should only be to get to a safe stopping place or to a nearest tyre fitting center. Air leaking slowly from tyre will initially give a bit of a grace period, but it won’t last long. So, don’t take any chances with punctures, get them repaired or replaced immediately.
Can I get a tyre puncture fixed?
Yes, for puncture repairs, we not only stock tyre puncture repair patches known for their versatility and reliability. Also, we offer a car tyre puncture repair service in all of our branches countrywide.
Summary
To confirm the condition of your tyres, book in at any of our Tire World branches today. One of our expert technicians will check your tyre pressure, tread depth, and offer free, friendly advice as to whether it can be repaired or worth just getting replaced altogether.
Think you might have a slow puncture? Visit your nearest Tire World branch and get it checked out today.